Artificial intelligence electrocardiogram interpretation algorithm saves lives in Penghu county

One 58-year-old male returned to Wangan township earlier on Tomb Sweeping Day. Dizziness, chest tightness, and general weakness were noted and he went to the public health center for medical assistance. Dr. Wu arranged an electrocardiogram(ECG) immediately and the data was directly transferred to the artificial intelligence(AI) mainframe at Tri-Service General Hospital for interpretation. The reading showed a 97% risk of acute myocardial infarction at the right coronary artery. There were also alert messages replied to the public health center and Tri-Service General Hospital Penghu branch at the same time. The patient was transferred to Makong harbor by speedboat and sent to the cardiac catheterization center. Cardiologist Dr. Chang performed percutaneous coronary intervention with recanalization and stenting with a door-to-balloon time of 64 minutes. The patient recovered very well and was discharged on day 3.

Tri-Service General Hospital Penghu branch cooperated with Wangan township public health center and deployed AI-assisted ECG equipment since Jan 2022. This AI-ECG algorithm was built up by the division of cardiology of Tri-Service General Hospital, and the school of medicine, Nation Defense Medical Center. By machine learning, the interpretation not only can tell the risk of coronary artery emergency but also arrhythmia, electrolyte imbalance, and even diabetes condition.

With a great backup system from NDMC and the most advanced technology, we’re looking forward to obtaining more AI-ECG equipment deployed at all remote islands of Penghu county. Thus, people can have fast, high-quality medical care with precision and convenience.